While record snowpack blanketed Washington’s forests over the winter, there remains a serious risk for wildfires in the coming months, according to the Department of Natural Resources.
Commissioner of Public Lands Peter Goldmark is asking Washington residents and visitors to Washington parks to be careful to prevent wildland fires over Memorial Day weekend and throughout the coming months.
“Despite recent cool and overcast weather on the western side of the state, we know there is fire danger,” Goldmark said in a prepared statement. “We’re asking people to take extra care. An escaped campfire can threaten lives, property and natural resources.”
Wildfires burned more than a million acres in Washington in 2015, according to the DNR. The DNR has already responded to more than 100 wildland fires in 2016.
Tips for preventing wildfires include making sure off-road vehicles have a properly functioning catalytic converter or spark arrester, only building campfires where authorized and disposing of lit smoking materials correctly.
Discharging fireworks on public lands is illegal.
For tips on preparing your home for wildfire season, go to www.firewise.org.
